Telangana is facing a concerning rise in gestational diabetes among pregnant women, with approximately one in six expectant mothers affected by diabetes during pregnancy in the state. This is in line with the national trend. The theme of World Health Day this year, ‘Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures’, highlights the importance of maternal and newborn health.
Gestational diabetes, if not managed properly, can pose risks to both mothers and newborns even after childbirth. High-risk women may continue to experience diabetes post-pregnancy, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance regarding lifestyle and dietary choices.
Factors like obesity, unhealthy lifestyle, and family history of diabetes contribute to the prevalence of gestational diabetes among pregnant women. Babies born to mothers with gestational diabetes are at risk of low blood sugar levels.
In Telangana, the maternal morbidity clinics, launched for the first time in the country, aim to address post-delivery complications to ensure the health of mothers and newborns beyond the typical 42-day follow-up period. Over 400,000 women have been evaluated in these clinics, with about 14% experiencing complications persisting beyond 42 days, including stress, urinary or anal incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse.
Health commissioner RV Karnan highlighted the importance of providing ongoing care to women post-delivery to prevent long-term effects and ensure the well-being of both mother and child. The state clinics conduct screenings at primary health centers and refer those in need of advanced treatment to district hospitals, all at no cost. This initiative aims to address the critical health issues faced by women in the postpartum period, promoting better outcomes for mothers and newborns.
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